I was reading an article today about how a certain organization felt “snubbed” that only one Presidential candidate was able to show up for their conference. One of the representatives of the organization then goes on to explain that their group has tremendous influence and therefore have a multiplier effect when it comes to potential votes. I think their statements and “threats” are plausible, but they are done in bad taste.
Insane Schedules
Having joined several political election campaigns already, I can tell you that it is really hard managing the schedule of a candidate. When it’s election season, everyone wants a piece of them, especially if they are running for a national post. Other than the forum invitations, these candidates also have to attend sorties and a barrage of other activities that will reach a large audience. The campaign time is finite and they have to make the most of every minute that they have. Candidates have responsibilities to their party, family, church, and industry. We can’t expect them to always be there for events.
Granted that you do have a sizeable group, if the candidate doesn’t attend it’s their loss. There’s no need to flaunt it to the media by flexing your organization muscles. It’s just unethical to do so.
What happens is something like this:
Dear Mr. Candidate,
We’d like to invite you to be a speaker in our event. You will be talking about how you will address the following issues: poverty, debt, social costs, etc.
Thank you and we look forward to your reply!
PS: If you don’t go we will complain to the media.
Whut!?
Always remember that this is not mandatory for them.
It’s the Candidate’s fault when…
However, candidates also make mistakes. One of the usual I keep hearing about is that their office sends a reply saying that they will be present during the event but they suddenly back out at the last minute. Now that’s rude. If ever they do this to you, then by all means complain.
If the machinery of the candidate can handle simple scheduling, what more when he or she becomes the President? When you say yes, move heaven and earth to make sure you’re there because people will hope and expect to see you at the event.
RSS
Twitter
Facebook
LinkedIn
I don’t know Mr. Ople, my candidate is as busy as all the others yet he found time to attend it. Maybe it’s a matter of prioritizing important events. The local papers managed to publish it as well. I guess most candidates prioritized campaigning to key areas rather than attending a seminar of professionals to address their concern. At the end of the day, groups who were dissed were given a deep imprint.